The Baltimore Orioles’ quiet offseason has left fans feeling underwhelmed.
Under new ownership, expectations were high for a more aggressive approach. While there have been some changes—most notably Mike Elias handing out his first multi-year contract in years to Tyler O’Neill (three years, $49.5 million)—the rest of the moves have been modest, primarily focused on marginal pitching upgrades.
Despite competing in a tough division, Baltimore still isn’t spending at the level of New York or even Toronto. The team is relying on its deep, young core, but there are clear obstacles ahead. After consecutive postseason disappointments, the lack of investment in top-tier pitching is hard to ignore. The O’s traded for Corbin Burnes but let him walk, and they have yet to secure a long-term solution for their rotation.
However, there’s still time for Baltimore to make a big move. Elias has been patient, and the team is well-positioned for a major acquisition. His latest signing—veteran outfielder Ramón Laureano on a one-year deal—may not seem significant at first. The 30-year-old, who split last season between Cleveland and Atlanta, posted a .758 OPS with 11 home runs and 1.3 WAR in 98 games.
With Laureano now the seventh outfielder on the 40-man roster, his addition could signal that a larger move is on the horizon.
Orioles’ Ramon Laureano signing might set up pitching trade
Ramon Laureano provides solid depth, but he isn’t exactly filling a major need—at least not yet. However, if the Orioles pursue pitching upgrades, they may need to part with some of their young outfield talent. One prime trade candidate is 25-year-old Heston Kjerstad, who is on the fringe of the 26-man roster behind Colton Cowser, Cedric Mullins, Tyler O’Neill, and Laureano.
Kjerstad posted a .745 OPS over 99 big-league at-bats last season and remains one of Baltimore’s top outfield prospects. If the Orioles explore trades for frontline starters like Dylan Cease or Luis Castillo, Kjerstad could become a key piece in negotiations.
The O’s rotation—headlined by Grayson Rodriguez, Zach Eflin, and Charlie Morton—looks solid but has struggled in the postseason. Even Corbin Burnes’ dominant performance in the 2024 Wild Card round wasn’t enough to push Baltimore forward. The team’s young offense has shown a frustrating tendency to go cold at the worst times, making an elite pitching staff the best way to compensate for inexperience.
Despite Kjerstad’s potential, his path in Baltimore is uncertain due to the team’s outfield depth. With a surplus of young talent and clear needs at the top of the rotation, the Orioles can’t afford to hold onto every prospect. Kjerstad would have an easier route to playing time in places like San Diego or Seattle, while Baltimore would benefit from acquiring an ace-caliber pitcher.
Laureano may seem like an unnecessary addition now, but if his presence helps facilitate a bigger move, the Orioles’ front office will have played their hand wisely.
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